Chris Feuell is this year’s commencement speaker for the Eli Broad College of Business. A transformational leader in automotive, supply chain automation and intelligent building technologies, she serves on the Broad College’s Advisory Board. Feuell has been recognized in Michigan and nationally as a champion for advancing the professional development of women and for her impact on the automotive industry.

After graduating from Michigan State University with a degree in business administration, I began my career at Ford Motor Company in field sales in Ford’s New York region. That experience was foundational — not only in building my understanding of automotive and dealership operations, but in instilling a deep and lasting focus on the customer.

When I left MSU, I didn’t have a five-year plan, but I was energized and determined to make it on my own. Moving from Michigan to New York City was a defining moment — one that pushed me to rely on the Spartan values I developed: resilience, adaptability and hard work.

Those values became guiding principles as I navigated a career path that was anything but linear. I learned to embrace lateral moves, cross-functional roles and continuous learning — each experience stretching my capabilities and broadening my perspectives.

By saying yes to opportunities before I felt fully ready, I challenged my fears and discomforts and built the confidence and leadership skills that would eventually lead to bigger opportunities. It was often uncomfortable, even intimidating at times, but that’s where the growth happens.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to innovations that made a real difference, including developing and launching the first generation Ford Escape, Escape Hybrid and Ford Edge; creating breakthrough technology solutions for customers like Amazon, Target and FedEx; revitalizing iconic automotive brands; and honoring Chrysler’s Century of Innovation as one of the few automotive brands to endure over 100 years.

At the same time, some of my most meaningful growth came from setbacks. There were failed projects and difficult moments that challenged me to reflect, learn and improve. Honest feedback from mentors helped me uncover blind spots and become a more effective leader. I also learned how to take lessons from failure and turn them into better outcomes — experiences that ultimately led to new ideas and innovations, like the Ford Edge.

In 2009, my position at Ford Motor Company was eliminated, turning my world upside down. That period forced me to redefine my identity and sense of purpose beyond one company and even one industry. I leaned on my Spartan network, spent meaningful time with family and friends, and remained open to new possibilities. That journey led me to Johnson Controls, where I spent eight years leading marketing and strategic planning in a completely new industry. Expanding into building technologies, driving innovation and integrating acquisitions gave me invaluable experiences that prepared me for future C-suite leadership roles at Honeywell and Stellantis.

Looking back, what stands out most is how each of these experiences — both successes and setbacks — prepared me to embrace change as an opportunity. And it proves that when you truly want something, you always seem to find the drive and perseverance to make it a reality. That Spartan spirit continues to guide me today.

I’m proud to stay closely connected to MSU through the Broad College of Business Advisory Board and energized by the opportunity to support and inspire the next generation of leaders.

I’m grateful for the journey, proud to be a Spartan and excited for the future.

Go Green!